Nun's Valley Open 4X4 Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this tour, you will visit the interior of Madeira Island, visiting the Curral das Freiras village (Nun's Valley) and Pico Areeiro.
Learn about the history of this places, a reforested area & Paredão viewpoint, great scenery all the time with cliffs, mountains and reaching to the top, the 3rd highest Madeira's peak, at 1818 meters high.
Available options
Nun's Valley Open 4X4 Tour
Pickup included
What's included
maximum 8 persons per vehicle
liability insurance
multilanguage guide
Hotel/port pick-up and drop-off
4x4 tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
this belvedere dates from 1950. At approximately 355 metres above sea level, it offers a panoramic view overlooking Funchal Bay.
2
Curral das Freiras was the property of a couple that sold this land to the captain of Funchal, João Gonçalves da Câmara. This captain gave the lands to his daughters when they entered the Santa Clara convent (also built by him).
3
Montado do Paredão an area which was subject to intensive reforestation works.
4
Stop 4
is Madeira Island's third highest peak.
Most days, visitors can stand and look down on the clouds. The air is fresh and clear and the sun is very bright. On a clear day it is possible to see the neighbouring island of Porto Santo, 30 miles to the northeast.
5
Stop 5
In 1566 the nuns from the Santa Clara convent fled from pirates attacking Funchal and found seclusion here, where they also brought the convent treasure.
The parish is very isolated, and locals mainly live of what they grow. The local chestnuts are delicious and are used in everyday cooking.
What's not included
Gratuities
pick up outside of Funchal extra fee
pick up at the cruise dock extra fee
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
11 reviews
5★
6
4★
2
3★
3
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.5
22 reviews
5★
15
4★
4
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Madeira
Madeira, a stunning archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its dramatic landscapes, lush gardens, and mild climate year-round. Often referred to as the 'Hawaii of Europe,' it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Pico do Arieiro
The third-highest peak in Madeira, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free
Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha)
The historic heart of Funchal with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming shops.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Cabo Girão
One of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offering stunning views and a glass skywalk.
Nature
1-2 hours
€3 for the skywalk
Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico)
A beautiful garden with a variety of exotic plants and flowers, offering stunning views of Funchal.
Nature
1-2 hours
€7.50
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Volcanic rock pools filled with seawater, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Nature
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bolo do Caco
A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potato and garlic, often served with garlic butter.
Bread
Vegetarian
Espetada
Skewered beef marinated in garlic, wine, and bay leaves, grilled to perfection.
Main Course
Contains meat
Poncha
A traditional Madeiran cocktail made with aguardente (local brandy), honey, and lemon or orange juice.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Canyoning
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Visiting museums
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best combination of warm weather and fewer tourists. The landscape is lush and vibrant, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Madeira is generally safe with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Madeira Airport (Funchal) • 17 km (10.5 miles) from Funchal
By bus
Funchal, Santa Cruz
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and reliable, but schedules can be limited in rural areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Funchal
Câmara de Lobos
Santana
Day trips
Porto Santo
60 km (37 miles) from Funchal • Full day
A small island known for its golden sand beach and relaxed atmosphere.
Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo Hike
20 km (12.4 miles) from Funchal • Full day
A challenging but rewarding hike between two of Madeira's highest peaks.
Seixal Beach and Ponta de São Lourenço
30 km (18.6 miles) from Funchal • Full day
A stunning coastal area with black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs.
Festivals
Festa da Flor (Flower Festival) • Early May
Atlantic Festival • August
Carnival of Madeira • February/March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
- Take a levada walk for a unique and scenic hiking experience.
- Try Poncha, a traditional Madeiran cocktail, at a local bar.
- Explore the island's hidden beaches and coves for a peaceful retreat.
- Attend a local festival for an immersive cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
